Kremlin Eases Criticism of Trumps Missile Defense Initiative, Calling It a U.S. Sovereign Decision

The Kremlin stated on Wednesday that the U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed «Golden Dome» missile defense system is a «sovereign matter» for the United States. This marks a shift in rhetoric following earlier concerns that the initiative might undermine global stability.

Trump initiated the project just a week after taking office in January, asserting that the system would position missile interceptors in space to counter ballistic and hypersonic threats. He provided some initial funding details on Tuesday, emphasizing its significance for the nation’s success and survival.

“This is a matter of sovereignty for the United States. If the U.S. perceives a missile threat, it is natural that it will pursue the development of a missile defense system,” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told journalists.

“That is the approach taken by all nations,” he added, noting that this situation would eventually necessitate renewed dialogues to “restore strategic stability,” alluding to broader discussions on nuclear arms.

Peskov’s comments followed a phone conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which the U.S. president characterized as “very successful.”

Earlier this month, Moscow had expressed its objections to the «Golden Dome» concept, cautioning that it could result in the militarization of space. In a joint statement, both Russia and China deemed the proposal «highly destabilizing.»

The name «Golden Dome» draws parallels with Israel’s Iron Dome air defense system, which has intercepted thousands of short-range rockets since its inception in 2011. In contrast, the U.S. initiative aims to protect against long-range and hypersonic threats.

China, which has strengthened its strategic partnership with Russia in recent years, reiterated its opposition to the U.S. plan on Wednesday, calling it a menace to global security.